The largest private collection of militaria ever offered for sale will cross the block at Morphy Auctions next month.
The auction, held in conjunction with Greg Martin & Associates, will offer 2,200 lots across three days, spanning five centuries of warfare from the 1600s to the present day.
As the life’s work of a Southern California gentleman, the collection includes everything from swords, firearms and cannons to armour, uniforms, headgear, accessories and military artwork.
"The breadth and scope of this fresh to the market collection is astounding," said Greg Martin. "I am certain militaria enthusiasts will agree as well. Examples from the early 1600’s through the 20th century are all on offer. The collection is particularly strong in edged weapons, headgear, uniforms and selections from the Napoleonic period. There is truly something for everyone in this remarkable collection."
Amongst the collection are more than 1,200 weapons such as swords, rapiers, sabers, pole arms and variations from England, Europe, the USA, Asia and the Ottoman Empire.
Notable highlights include a deluxe Indo-Persian officer’s sword estimated at $2,500-3,500; a French First Empire Sapeurs infantry sword estimated at $3,500-4,500; and a magnificent English Napoleonic era officer’s sword estimated at $3,000-5,000.
It also features around 800 pieces of uniform, spanning dozens of countries and periods, from French Napoleon I Era officer’s tunics to German WWII jackets and U.S Civil War items.
The enormous scope of the collection also takes in flags, sashes, badges, epaulettes, medals, prints, sculptures, trophies, and other military themed collectibles, all carefully curated over decades.
"We are thrilled to be collaborating with Greg Martin & Associates on this world class auction event," said Dan Morphy, President of Morphy Auctions. "Greg’s reputation and category expertise, combined with our sales, marketing, and operational leadership, makes this an ideal partnership. We both look forward to welcoming bidders from all over the world to Las Vegas for this can’t miss sale."
The auction takes place in Morphy Auctions’ Las Vegas gallery on July 8-10.
